Final answer:
The only correctly matched item is a. Carotid arteries supply oxygenated blood to the brain and cranial structures. The other options incorrectly describe the vascular pathways associated with the subclavian arteries, jugular veins, and external iliac artery.
Step-by-step explanation:
The correct match from the options provided is a. Carotid arteries - supply oxygenated blood to the brain and cranial structures. The carotid arteries are essential in providing oxygenated blood to the brain, with the internal carotid artery directly reaching the brain via the carotid canal. The subclavian arteries, contrary to option b, are actually responsible for transporting blood to the arms and not the lower extremities. The jugular veins, mentioned in option c, drain the blood from the head and neck but empty into the subclavian veins, not the inferior vena cava. Lastly, the external iliac artery provides blood to the lower limbs and not to the circle of Willis or the arms, disproving option d.
The carotid arteries are major blood vessels that supply oxygenated blood to the brain, face, and neck. They branch off from the common carotid artery, which in turn arises from the aorta. The external carotid artery supplies blood to structures in the face, lower jaw, neck, esophagus, and larynx, while the internal carotid artery supplies blood specifically to the brain via the carotid canal and carotid foramen.